Dublin Apartment Scheme Rejected Over Design Concerns
Table of Contents
Dublin — April 28, 2025 —
An Bord Pleanála has rejected plans for a €30 million apartment scheme on Dublin’s Old Navan Road, citing design concerns and inadequate integration with the surrounding area. The decision halts Bartra Property‘s second attempt to develop a residential complex on the site, following notable local opposition. The planning appeals board highlighted the scheme’s lack of harmony with the established area and insufficient parking provision. Experts suggest that future developments must address thes critical aspects to gain approval.
Dublin Apartment Scheme Rejected Over Design Concerns
April 28, 2025
An bord Pleanala has rejected plans for a €30 million apartment complex on Dublin’s Old Navan Road, marking the second failed attempt by the developer to redevelop the site.
Project Overview
Bartra Property (Castleknock) Ltd had proposed a five-story, 56-apartment scheme at the location of Brady’s Public House on Old Navan Road, Dublin 15. The project faced notable opposition, with 75 objections lodged against it.
Did You Know?
An Bord pleanala is Ireland’s national planning appeals board, responsible for deciding on appeals against decisions made by local planning authorities.
- Developer: Bartra Property (Castleknock) ltd
- Location: Old Navan Road, Dublin 15
- Project: Five-story, 56-apartment scheme
- Cost: €30 million
Reasons for Refusal
The appeals board upheld the decision by Fingal Co Council to deny planning permission. The primary reasons cited were related to the design and its lack of integration with the surrounding area.
Having regard to its height, massing, bulk and design and its lack of a direct relationship with the public open space located immediately to the north-east of the subject site, the proposed progress fails to integrate with the established character of the area.
The board also raised concerns about inadequate on-site car parking, which they believed would negatively impact future residents and lead to traffic congestion.
Pro Tip
When planning developments, consider the existing character of the area and ensure designs complement the surroundings. Adequate parking is also crucial for residential amenity and public safety.
According to the board, the scheme contradicted the Fingal County Development Plan 2023-2029, which emphasizes high-quality design and accessible public spaces.
Objections and Previous Attempts
This rejection marks Bartra’s second unsuccessful attempt to redevelop the site. Among the objectors was Castleknock resident Barry O’Lone.
O’lone had previously rejected a €100,000 offer from Bartra in 2023 to withdraw a High Court challenge against a 210-bedspace co-living scheme planned for the same location.
The co-living scheme was abandoned, and Bartra later submitted plans for the apartment complex in May of last year.
O’Lone reiterated his previous allegation that he was offered €100,000 by Bartra in April 2023 to drop his legal challenge against the co-living scheme.
developer’s Perspective
In their appeal,Thornton O’Connor Town Planning,representing Bartra,argued that the site was suitable for increased height and density.
Thornton O’Connor Town Planning
There are not many better sites in the city that have the capacity for increased height and density.
Bartra did not respond to requests for comment.
FAQ
- Why was the apartment scheme rejected?
- The scheme was rejected due to its design, lack of integration with the area, and inadequate parking.
- What is the Fingal County Development Plan?
- It is a plan that requires new developments to integrate high-quality design and accessible public realms.
- Who is Barry O’Lone?
- He is a Castleknock resident who objected to the development and a previous co-living scheme.
What’s Next?
The future of the site remains uncertain following this latest rejection. Bartra Property (Castleknock) Ltd will need to address the concerns raised by An bord Pleanala and Fingal Co Council if they wish to pursue further development on the old Navan Road location.
